PUBLISHED February 13th, 2019 06:00 am | UPDATED July 23rd, 2024 06:17 pm
Sometimes we wonder why no one had thought of something like Garden Beats earlier. It’s almost obvious — Singapore’s a garden city, and it’s full of people who like a good rave. Still, it’s better late than never, because how often do we get to party with The Kooks and Masego in the middle of such lush greenery? Touted as Singapore’s first music and picnic festival, Garden Beats returns to Fort Canning on 9 March for its 5th anniversary.
The Kooks, Black Coffee, and Alina Baraz to head the line-up
We have the utmost trust in Sunshine Nation, the events brand that’s brought esteemed names like Klingande, Wankelmut, Youngr, and Pomo to our shores. Plus, they’re going all out this year to bring us a line-up that’s bigger than ever. Broadening its horizon beyond electronic music, fans can expect the handsome Brit indie-rock band The Kooks to steal the night. R&B veterans Alina Baraz and Masego will also grace the stage for a bopping good time.
And let’s not forget the Electro crowd — it’s the festival’s core theme, right? Black Coffee is no stranger in the industry, having helmed the decks at Coachella and Tomorrowland. Alongside him is the multi-award-winning German artist Alle Farben, Aussie techno powerhouse Coran, and LA disco funk producer Yung Bae.
A larger and greener space
Remember the festival grounds at Fort Canning Park in previous editions? Now, they’re moving down to a larger venue that’s more than twice the size. Garden Beats is also a dedicated carbon-neutral festival with zero-plastic measures and other green initiatives, having partnered with Green is the New Black, Revolv, Peco Bag, Citizen Farm, and more. For the first time, you can join eco-workshops and talks to find out more about sustainable living and conscious partying from notable figures like Xin Yi of H&M and Jess Ong of Zero Waste SG.
Introducing the foodpanda Village
Worried about getting hungry? Garden Beats has partnered with foodpanda to bring some of the city’s top dining establishments over for your picnicking needs. And with names like Dumpling Darlings, Fat Prince, Don Ho, Papi’s Tacos, and Kult Kafe, you’re going to be very, very well fed. On the boozy end of things, cool down with a refreshing Somersby cider or beer from Brooklyn Brewery.
It’s not just food inside the foodpanda village too. Take a break at the very Instagram-worthy double swing, the iconic foodpanda Arch of Love, and the gorgeous Geodesic Dome that comes to life with tessellated flower roofs and dynamic reflections. Filled with vibrant tapestries and cushions, chill out with your tribe while listening to your favourite artists play!
Eco-conscious workshop and activities for all
Five years is a big deal, which is why there are more activities, art installations, and workshops than ever this year. Get crafty with Mural Lingo as you create personalised tote bags with stencil art, or participate in live mural painting. There’s even a class for making your own water colour pigments from various fruits, plants, and foliage.
Prefer a more relaxing vibe? Enter the Flower Fortress of Total Acceptance where you’ll be guided on making DIY natural aromatherapeutic body mist with 100% natural aromas, courtesy of Utama Spice. Other pop-ups include a well-being oasis at the Zen Garden, exciting large-scale games, and a styling hub for an eco-friendly makeover — with biodegradable glitter and flower crowns, no less.
Photos courtesy of Colossal Photos.